Taking look at new Arsenal signing Mikel Merino's career so far

Arsenal have signed Real Sociedad playmaker Mikel Merino. The midfielder rose to fame during Spain’s success at UEFA Euro 2024 and was a key part in the La Roja set-up. He scored some crucial goals in the tournament as Spain lifted their fourth-ever UEFA European Championships. But what has the midfielder’s career been so far? 

Beginning his career at Osasuna, the 28-year-old then had brief stints at Newcastle and Borussia Dortmund. Merino got back to Spain to sign for Sociedad after spending just one season with Newcastle alongside Rafael Benitez, where he quickly made a name for himself as one of the most talented midfielders in the nation.

Following his success in Tokyo in 2021, Merino gained international notoriety. Last month, he was instrumental in Spain's victory in Euro 2024, scoring the game-winning goal versus Germany in the final eight minutes. After 242 games and 27 goals for Real Sociedad, Merino leaves the team and signs with Arsenal as their second significant summer acquisition, following the Bologna-based Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori.

“We welcome Mikel and his family to the club” : Arsenal Sporting Director

Arsenal Sporting Director Edu spoke after Mikel Merino’s transfer got completed. He said, “We are so happy to have completed the transfer of Mikel Merino. This has been another great team effort from many people at the club to finalise the transfer of a player who attracted interest from a number of clubs over the summer. Mikel was a key target for us this summer, and we identified him as a player who can fit perfectly into our squad and profile to improve us, as we aim to build on our strong performances of last season.

He added, “With Mikel’s arrival, he brings us an added high quality of experience, physicality and athleticism as we look forward to this season ahead.We welcome Mikel and his family to the club, and look forward to seeing him play in the Arsenal shirt.”